Malta

"Tobacco product" means products for the purposes of smoking wholly or partly of tobacco.

The definition of "tobacco product" contained in the law aligns with the definition of “tobacco product” provided in FCTC Art. 1(f). Although the definition contained in the law does not cover tobacco products to be used for sucking, chewing, or snuffing, that is not necessary because smokeless tobacco products are prohibited in Malta.

"Sponsorship" means any form of public or private contribution to any event, activity or individual with the aim or direct or indirect effect of promoting a tobacco product.

The definition of "sponsorship" contained in the law aligns with the definition of “tobacco sponsorship” provided in FCTC Art. 1(g) in that it prohibits sponsorship that will directly or indirectly promote a tobacco product. However, to more closely align with the definition of “tobacco sponsorship” provided in FCTC Art. 1(g), the definition of “sponsorship” in the law should also prohibit sponsorship that directly or indirectly promotes tobacco use (not only a tobacco product).

"Advertising" means any form of commercial communication with the aim of directly or indirectly promoting tobacco products.

The definition of “advertising” contained in the law does not align with the definition of “tobacco advertising and promotion” provided in FCTC Art. 1(c) because it covers only commercial “communication” promoting tobacco products. To align with the definition of “tobacco advertising and promotion” provided in FCTC Art. 1(c), the definition in the law should also cover any commercial “recommendation or action” promoting a tobacco product or tobacco use.

"Publication" includes any article, of any material whatsoever, on which are visible any word, picture or other message, whether printed or otherwise.

The definition of “publication” is significant because tobacco advertising is prohibited in publications.